What Happened
In Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Finals, the Indiana Pacers faced off against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Pacers entered the game with a 2-1 series lead, aiming to secure a commanding 3-1 advantage, while the Thunder sought to even the series at 2-2. The matchup was particularly significant as it represented a pivotal moment in the series, with historical statistics indicating that teams leading 2-1 in the Finals have a high success rate of closing out the series.
The game began with both teams making strategic adjustments. The Thunder reverted to a double-big lineup featuring Isaiah Hartenstein alongside Chet Holmgren, aiming to bolster their rebounding and interior defense. Conversely, the Pacers looked to maintain their momentum from a strong Game 3 performance, where they showcased significant contributions from their bench, particularly from Bennedict Mathurin, who had scored 27 points in that game.
Key Details
- Game Time and Location: Game 4 took place on June 13, 2025, at 8:30 PM ET at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.
- Series Context: The Pacers led the series 2-1, with a chance to take a commanding lead. Historically, teams that win Game 4 after leading 2-1 have a 97% success rate in winning the series.
- Key Players:
- For the Pacers, Tyrese Haliburton was a focal point, having performed well in previous games. He had a strong Game 3 with 22 points and 11 assists.
- The Thunder’s star, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, was looking to bounce back after a subpar performance in Game 3, where he failed to score 30 points for the first time since the Western Conference Finals.
- Betting Odds: Despite being down in the series, the Thunder were favored to win Game 4, reflecting confidence in their ability to perform on the road, despite a poor postseason record away from home.
Multiple Perspectives
Opinions on the matchup varied, particularly regarding the effectiveness of the Thunder’s lineup changes. Some analysts argued that the decision to start Hartenstein was a necessary adjustment to counter the Pacers’ offensive strategies, particularly their perimeter shooting. Others contended that the change could expose the Thunder’s defense, particularly against quicker players like Haliburton and Pascal Siakam.
From the Pacers’ perspective, there was a strong belief in their ability to capitalize on the Thunder’s adjustments. Pacers players emphasized the importance of maintaining their defensive intensity and leveraging their bench depth, which had been a significant factor in their previous victories.
Analysts’ Views
- Steve Aschburner from NBA.com highlighted the importance of bench production, noting that the team with the stronger bench had won each game in the series thus far.
- Sam Quinn from CBS Sports pointed out that the Thunder’s struggles on the road could be a critical factor, as they had not covered the spread in any of their away games during the playoffs.
Context & Background
The 2025 NBA Finals marks a significant moment for both franchises. For the Pacers, a victory would secure their first NBA championship in franchise history, a milestone they have pursued for decades. The Thunder, on the other hand, are seeking their first title since relocating to Oklahoma City, and the pressure is mounting as they face a formidable opponent in the Pacers.
Historically, the NBA Finals have seen teams that lead 2-1 often go on to win the series, making Game 4 a crucial juncture. The implications of this game extend beyond just the series; they could redefine the legacies of both franchises and their star players.
What We Don’t Know Yet
As of now, the outcome of Game 4 remains uncertain, with both teams having strong motivations to secure a win. The effectiveness of the Thunder’s lineup changes and the Pacers’ ability to maintain their momentum are key factors that will unfold during the game. Additionally, the long-term impact of this series on the careers of players like Haliburton and Gilgeous-Alexander remains to be seen, particularly in terms of their potential to secure Finals MVP honors and their respective franchises’ futures.
Furthermore, the mental and physical fatigue of both teams, given the intensity of the playoffs, could play a significant role in determining the outcome of this game and the series as a whole. As the series progresses, it will be essential to monitor player performances, coaching strategies, and any potential injuries that could affect the remaining games.
